Monday, April 23, 2012

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What Are The Benefits Of The Diabetes Glycemic Index?

What Are The Benefits Of The Diabetes Glycemic Index?

The diabetes glycemic index was developed back in the 80s for those who are suffering from diabetes to help them monitor and control the levels of their blood sugar. Ever since the development of the index, it has helped not just those with diabetes, but even those who are suffering from obesity and those who want to lose weight or maintain a normal weight. The GI system works by simply calculating the value of foods with the highest and lowest effect on the levels of blood sugar. This useful tool can help diabetic patients learn of the foods that they can and cannot consume.

Through the use of the diabetes glycemic index, it can be possible for diabetes patients to plan their diets carefully without sacrificing the taste of the food. One reason why diabetes GI becomes effective is because it can help devise a diet for diabetes patients. It can assist people to prevent complications with their current condition by maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet. Most of the foods listed at the top of the index are the ones that should be avoided like white bread. The diabetes glycemic index is beneficial in lots of ways. This is because it can show you the value of foods according to how much it can affect the level of your blood sugar. Most fruits have low GI value but it can be hard to determine which of these fruits will best suit you as most of them are sweet. Fats should be avoided, but essential fats like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids should all be included in your diet.

Another area where the glycemic index can be very helpful is that it can help diabetes patients make a great choice when it comes to the carbohydrates they consume. Using the glycemic index as a guide, it can help you substitute white bread and rice with healthier alternatives. Looking at the index, you will see that brown rice has lower GI value compared to white rice. This means brown rice is a lot healthier than white rice. Aside from that, there are lots of other alternatives like rye.

The bottom line here is that, the diabetes glycemic index is definitely a valuable tool, not just for those who are suffering from diabetes, but also for those who are obese and those who want to lose weight and maintain a normal weight. Take note that foods with low GI value are the healthiest. However, you also have to take note of the foods glycemic load as well. If you are not familiar of what glycemic load is, you might want to do a little research or ask a dietitian for more help.